Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Shrub
Height
120 inches
Width
96 inches
Light
Full Sun
Zones
5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Medium
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
10-20 years
Native To
Central and Western China
Toxicity
Low toxicity; can cause stomach upset if ingested.
The Story
Plant Bio
Buddleja davidii is recognized for its long spikes of fragrant flowers that attract butterflies and other pollinators. Commonly called 'butterfly bush' for its ability to attract butterflies. Note: This species is considered invasive in many regions, including the Pacific Northwest of the USA, due to its prolific self-seeding. Sterile cultivars are often recommended.
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck young plants into well-drained soil in spring for best establishment.
- Mist cuttings in a warm, bright location until roots develop, usually in 6 weeks.
- Prune after flowering to maintain shape and encourage new growth.
- Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to promote healthy blooms.
- Water deeply during dry spells to support growth, especially in the first year.
- Mulch around the base to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
Pro Tip
Prune heavily in late winter to promote abundant flowering and maintain shape.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly during dry periods 💧
- Prune after flowering to shape the shrub ✂️
- Feed with a balanced fertilizer annually 🌱
- Plant in full sun for best blooms ☀️
- Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds 🌿
Don't
- Don’t overwater in winter ❌
- Avoid heavy pruning in late summer ❌
- Do not plant in poorly drained soil ❌
- Refrain from fertilizing during dormancy ❌
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Prune | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Butterfly Bush questions
What zones can Butterfly Bush grow in?
Butterfly Bush is hardy in USDA Zones 5–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Butterfly Bush deer resistant?
Yes — Butterfly Bush is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Butterfly Bush bloom?
Butterfly Bush typically blooms in summer to fall through early fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Butterfly Bush need full sun?
Butterfly Bush does best in full sun (6+ hours).
Is Butterfly Bush drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Butterfly Bush handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Buddleja to compare
Pugster Amethyst Butterfly Bush
Buddleja davidii 'Pugster Amethyst'
Trio Butterfly Bush
Buddleja davidii 'Trio'
Bicolor Butterfly Bush
Buddleja davidii 'Bicolor'
Butterfly Haven Butterfly Bush
Buddleja davidii 'Butterfly Haven'
Hot Raspberry Butterfly Bush
Buddleja davidii 'Hot Raspberry'
Butterfly Bush Sky Blue
Buddleja davidii 'Sky Blue'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Collections featuring this plant
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Butterfly Bush with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
